Find Cheap Car Insurance in Charleston, SC

Did you know that Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the oldest cities in the United States, founded back in 1670? Its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and waterfront views have helped the city earn recognition as one of the most charming destinations in the country — a place where history and hospitality meet.

Charleston is also home to landmarks like Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired; the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in North America; and Rainbow Row, the famous line of colorful 18th-century homes along East Bay Street. The city’s blend of historic preservation and modern energy makes it a unique place to live and drive.

Whether you’re commuting over the Ravenel Bridge, navigating downtown’s narrow streets, or heading to the beaches at Sullivan’s Island or Folly Beach, having the right auto insurance is essential. The Palmetto State requires all drivers to carry liability coverage — and Acceptance Insurance helps you find cheap, customized plans that fit your needs and your budget. Keep reading and learn more about car insurance in South Carolina!

If you’re shopping for car insurance in Charleston, you’ll find that the standard liability coverage—required by state law—usually costs around $68 a month. That’s a little higher than the national average of $52 and also above the typical rate for most South Carolina drivers, which tends to be about $55.

Considering upgrading to full auto insurance in Charleston? Expect to pay roughly $181 each month, which is slightly more than both the state and national averages, sitting at $168.

What Does It Mean That South Carolina Is an At-Fault State?

South Carolina is an at-fault state, which means the driver who causes an accident is responsible for paying for the other driver’s injuries and property damage. The injured party does not have to rely on their own insurance first.

This makes having the appropriate liability coverage — and optionally, full coverage — very important. If you cause a crash, your insurance should protect you from significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Compare Car Insurance Rates by City in South Carolina

Car insurance costs vary across the state due to differences in traffic, coastal weather, crime rates, and claim frequency. Below is a comparison of average monthly premiums in Charleston and nearby cities:

Compare Car Insurance Rates by Zip Code in Charleston

Where you live in Charleston affects how much you pay for car insurance. Areas with more traffic congestion, higher claim rates, or greater exposure to storm damage tend to have higher premiums. Here’s how rates can vary across ZIP codes:

Low-Cost Car Insurance Rates by Age in Charleston

Auto insurance in Charleston tends to be most expensive for young drivers and becomes more affordable as drivers reach their 30s and 40s. Below is a breakdown of typical monthly rates by age:

*To figure out the average costs, we use the following approach: we consider a 30-year-old male, with the state’s minimum liability coverage and full 100/300/100 coverage

How Many Fatal Accidents Happen Per Year in Charleston, SC?

According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, a traffic collision occurs every 3.6 minutes in the Palmetto State, and a fatal collision happens every 9 hours. In 2023, there were a total of 145,761 collisions, resulting in the loss of 1,047 lives.

In Charleston County, where the city of Charleston is located, there were 16,118 collisions in 2023, of which 70 were fatal.

It’s important to keep in mind that accidents can increase your insurance costs, along with other serious consequences beyond just road safety. That’s why it’s always best to drive carefully.

Are Road Infrastructure and Bridges in Charleston Well Maintained?

Charleston has made significant investments in road improvements, drainage upgrades, and flood-mitigation systems due to frequent coastal storms and tidal flooding. The Ravenel Bridge is one of the most modern structures in the region, and many major roads have been resurfaced in recent years.

The city continues to expand infrastructure to accommodate rapid growth, improve stormwater systems, and reduce congestion in key areas.

By 2026, projects like the Airport Connector Road will be completed, and by 2028, the widening and improvements along Main Road from Bees Ferry Road to River Road will be finished.

South Carolina requires all drivers to carry the following minimum coverage:

• $25,000 bodily injury per person
• $50,000 bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 property damage per accident
• Uninsured motorist coverage equal to liability minimums

If your vehicle is financed, your lender may require comprehensive and collision coverage in addition to the mandatory liability policy.

The Insurance Information Institute estimates that around 10% of drivers in South Carolina are driving without insurance, which is why efforts are being made to lower that percentage.

Here’s what you can face if you drive without the required insurance:

• Fines between $100 and $200 for a first offense.
• Up to 30 days in jail instead of or in addition to fines.
• License and vehicle registration suspension until you show valid insurance.
• Reinstatement fees required to reactivate your license and registration.
• Higher penalties for repeat offenders, including larger fines or longer jail time.
• Full financial responsibility for any damages if you cause an accident while uninsured.

Carriers evaluate several factors when setting your insurance rate, including:

• Age — young drivers typically pay the highest premiums
• Credit score — poorer credit can lead to higher rates
• Marital status — married drivers often qualify for lower premiums
• Driving record — tickets and accidents raise costs
• Coverage selection — full coverage is more expensive than a liability policy
• Location — coastal areas face higher storm and flooding risks

Where you live, how you drive, and the type of protection you choose all shape your monthly premium.

Here’s What You Need to Know When Driving in Charleston, South Carolina

Driving across South Carolina varies widely — from the busy congestion of Charleston to the mountain roads of the Upstate. In coastal areas, like Charleston, flooding, hurricanes, and severe storms can impact daily driving conditions.

Construction projects, heavy tourism, and seasonal traffic also contribute to delays. Using a GPS app for route updates and slowing down during storms can help you stay safe on the road.

In your area, many insurance companies offer various discounts to attract new customers. You can either take some time to explore which providers have the best rates and deals, or simply rely on your Acceptance agent to handle the search for you!

Here are a few driver discounts you might qualify for: